“Very enriching:” 54th annual Lakefront Festival of Art showcases work from more than 175 artists

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MILWAUKEE -- Art, culture, beautiful weather all along Milwaukee's lakefront. Thousands of people are celebrating the annual Lakefront Festival of Art this weekend, contributing to the milestone of the festival having its one millionth visitor on Saturday, June 18th.

Lakefront Festival of Art

Jewelers, painters, sculptors, photographers and more.

"It's very enriching," said Krista Renfrew, Director of Special Events at the Milwaukee Art Museum.

You name it, it's along Milwaukee's lakefront.

Lakefront Festival of Art

"This is a really big anchor event for the culture community in Milwaukee," said Renfrew.

Lakefront Festival of Art

The 54th annual Lakefront Festival of Art took over the grounds of the Milwaukee Art Museum, featuring the works of more than 175 artists.

"The vibe is amazing," said Clifton Henri, artist from Chicago.

It's Clifton Henri's fourth time showing at the event. He says every year the festival-goers come out with such an eagerness to engage.

Lakefront Festival of Art

Clifton Henri

"It's cool to have that human connection, to be able to communicate visually and touch you emotionally," said Henri.

Henri calls himself a visual story teller who focuses around the African-American community.

"Just to change and take control of the narrative a little more and show some uplifting and inspirational type of imaging," said Henri.

Lakefront Festival of Art

Pieces of all backgrounds and styles are showcased this weekend, but the event is much more than just booths.

Lakefront Festival of Art

"We have food, we have a beer and wine garden -- an entire day experience," said Renfrew.

The event is also interactive. You can be part of creating a community mural, just grab a brush and paint what's on your mind.

It's an event to enjoy while supporting the artist.

"For people to really appreciate the work and then move toward purchases and acquiring and collecting your work, that helps us continue to do what we are here to do. That helps us follow our passions and our dreams," said Henri.

Lakefront Festival of Art

Attendance at the festival also gets you access to the Milwaukee Art Museum, special exhibits, permanent collections and entire festival grounds.